After spending 10-and-a-half years with Custom Collars in Opp, Justin Messick is opening his own dog supply store, Show-N-Go Dog Supplies, in Opp.

“I have a business partner in Houlka, Miss., Joey Williams,” Messick said. “We have been friends for several years. We did a lot of manufacturing for Joey at Custom Collars. Once Custom Collars closed, he presented the opportunity to go into business together and pick up where Custom Collars left off.”

Messick said that there is a big demand for a deer dog hunting supplies store, not only in Covington County, but also in Alabama and surrounding states.

“There are several big deer dog hunting clubs especially between Florala and Onycha,” Messick said. “You’ve Last Chance Hunting Club, Burnt House Hunting Club, 331 Club and Oak Tree Hunting Club so the demand is pretty big here in the county. A lot of dog hunters come out of Florida and Mississippi and come over and hunt here.”

During the hunting season, Messick said that deer dog hunting does help out the local economy.

“Since we have people coming from all of these different states, it does help out a lot,” Messick said. “People stay at our hotels, eat at our restaurants and buy gas at our gas stations, so deer dog hunting helps out. I’m a deer dog hunter myself and I really enjoy doing it.”

Show-N-Go manufactures cut vests for hog dogs, collars, leashes, dog boxes and nameplates. Messick said they do anything and supply everything for the sporting dog industry. They are also an authorized dealer for Garmin Tracking Systems.

Born and reared in Opp, Messick is excited to be opening up back in his hometown.

“I am most proud of being able to open a business back here in my hometown,” Messick said. “Opp is my hometown and I am excited to serve the people here.”

Show-N-Go Dog Supplies will have its grand opening today, Fri., May 24, at 1 p.m. They will have free hot dogs and drinks for everyone in attendance and will be showcasing Lee Barnes’ new sauce, Lee-Lee Sauce.

Show-N-Go Dog Supplies is located at 1006 U.S. Hwy. 84.